India Asserts Lipulekh Territory Claims by Nepal Are Unjustified and Historically Inaccurate

India has categorically rejected Nepal's claims over the Lipulekh pass, stating that historical trade practices support its position. The External Affairs Ministry emphasised the longstanding nature of border trade with China through this route.

India has firmly dismissed Nepal's objection to the decision by New Delhi and Beijing to restart border trade through the Lipulekh pass. Nepal claims this territory as its own, but India argues these claims lack justification. On Tuesday, India and China agreed to resume trade through Lipulekh and two other points.

The Nepalese foreign ministry expressed disapproval of the move, asserting that the Lipulekh pass is an integral part of Nepal. This issue traces back to 2020 when Nepal released a political map including Kalapani, Limpiyadhura, and Lipulekh within its borders, which India strongly contested.

India's Stance on Border Trade

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India's external affairs ministry, addressed Nepal's territorial claims. "We have noted the comments of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal related to resumption of border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh pass," he stated. He emphasized India's consistent position on the matter.

Jaiswal highlighted that trade through the Lipulekh pass began in 1954 and has continued for decades. However, recent disruptions occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors. Both countries have now agreed to resume this trade.

Territorial Claims and Historical Context

Regarding territorial disputes, Jaiswal reiterated India's stance that such claims are unjustified and not supported by historical facts or evidence. He described any unilateral expansion of territorial claims as untenable.

Despite these tensions, India remains open to engaging with Nepal constructively. Jaiswal mentioned that India is willing to resolve outstanding boundary issues through dialogue and diplomacy.

With inputs from PTI